1 Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured it upon his head, and kissed him, and said, Is it not because the Lord hath anointed thee to be captain over his inheritance?

2 When thou art departed from me to day, then thou shalt find two men by Rachel's sepulchre in the border of Benjamin at Zelzah; and they will say unto thee, The asses which thou wentest to seek are found: and, lo, thy father hath left the care of the asses, and sorroweth for you, saying, What shall I do for my son?

3 Then shalt thou go on forward from thence, and thou shalt come to the plain of Tabor, and there shall meet thee three men going up to God to Bethel, one carrying three kids, and another carrying three loaves of bread, and another carrying a bottle of wine:

4 And they will salute thee, and give thee two loaves of bread; which thou shalt receive of their hands.

5 After that thou shalt come to the hill of God, where is the garrison of the Philistines: and it shall come to pass, when thou art come thither to the city, that thou shalt meet a company of prophets coming down from the high place with a psaltery, and a tabret, and a pipe, and a harp, before them; and they shall prophesy:

6 And the Spirit of the Lord will come upon thee, and thou shalt prophesy with them, and shalt be turned into another man.

7 And let it be, when these signs are come unto thee, that thou do as occasion serve thee; for God is with thee.

8 And thou shalt go down before me to Gilgal; and, behold, I will come down unto thee, to offer burnt offerings, and to sacrifice sacrifices of peace offerings: seven days shalt thou tarry, till I come to thee, and shew thee what thou shalt do.

9 And it was so, that when he had turned his back to go from Samuel, God gave him another heart: and all those signs came to pass that day.

10 And when they came thither to the hill, behold, a company of prophets met him; and the Spirit of God came upon him, and he prophesied among them.

11 And it came to pass, when all that knew him beforetime saw that, behold, he prophesied among the prophets, then the people said one to another, What is this that is come unto the son of Kish? Is Saul also among the prophets?

12 And one of the same place answered and said, But who is their father? Therefore it became a proverb, Is Saul also among the prophets?

13 And when he had made an end of prophesying, he came to the high place.

14 And Saul's uncle said unto him and to his servant, Whither went ye? And he said, To seek the asses: and when we saw that they were no where, we came to Samuel.

15 And Saul's uncle said, Tell me, I pray thee, what Samuel said unto you.

16 And Saul said unto his uncle, He told us plainly that the asses were found. But of the matter of the kingdom, whereof Samuel spake, he told him not.

17 And Samuel called the people together unto the Lord to Mizpeh;

18 And said unto the children of Israel, Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, I brought up Israel out of Egypt, and delivered you out of the hand of the Egyptians, and out of the hand of all kingdoms, and of them that oppressed you:

19 And ye have this day rejected your God, who himself saved you out of all your adversities and your tribulations; and ye have said unto him, Nay, but set a king over us. Now therefore present yourselves before the Lord by your tribes, and by your thousands.

20 And when Samuel had caused all the tribes of Israel to come near, the tribe of Benjamin was taken.

21 When he had caused the tribe of Benjamin to come near by their families, the family of Matri was taken, and Saul the son of Kish was taken: and when they sought him, he could not be found.

22 Therefore they enquired of the Lord further, if the man should yet come thither. And the Lord answered, Behold he hath hid himself among the stuff.

23 And they ran and fetched him thence: and when he stood among the people, he was higher than any of the people from his shoulders and upward.

24 And Samuel said to all the people, See ye him whom the Lord hath chosen, that there is none like him among all the people? And all the people shouted, and said, God save the king.

25 Then Samuel told the people the manner of the kingdom, and wrote it in a book, and laid it up before the Lord. And Samuel sent all the people away, every man to his house.

26 And Saul also went home to Gibeah; and there went with him a band of men, whose hearts God had touched.

27 But the children of Belial said, How shall this man save us? And they despised him, and brought no presents. But he held his peace.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Samuel anoints Saul.
The sacred anointing, then used, pointed at the great Messiah, or Anointed One, the King of the church, and High Priest of our profession, who was anointed with the oil of the Spirit, not by measure, but without measure, and above all the priests and princes of the Jewish church. For Saul's further satisfaction, Samuel gives him some signs which should come to pass the same day. The first place he directs him to, was the sepulchre of one of his ancestors; there he must be reminded of his own mortality, and now that he had a crown before him, must think of his grave, in which all his honour would be laid in the dust. From the time of Samuel there appears to have been schools, or places where pious young men were brought up in the knowledge of Divine things. Saul should find himself strongly moved to join with them, and should be turned into another man from what he had been. The Spirit of God changes men, wonderfully transforms them. Saul, by praising God in the communion of saints, became another man, but it may be questioned if he became a new man.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Poured it - Which Is was the usual rite in the designation, as of priests and prophets, so also of kings, whereby was signified the pouring forth of the gifts of God's spirit upon him, to fit him for the administration of his office. These sacred unctions then used, pointed at the great Messiah, or anointed One, the King of the church, and High - priest of our profession, who was anointed with the oil of the spirit without measure, above all the priests and princes of the Jewish church. Kissed - As a testimony of his sincere friendship and affection to him. His inheritance - That is, over his own peculiar people. Whereby he admonisheth Saul, that this people were not so much his, as God's; and that he was not to rule them according his own will, but according to the will of God.
McArther Bible Commentary
the Lord has anointed you commander. The Lord chose Saul to be the leader of Israel and communicated His choice through the private anointing by Samuel, signifying a setting aside for God's service (see 1Sa 2:10). His inheritance? The inheritance was God's nation, Israel, in the sense that she uniquely belonged to Him (Deu 4:20; Deu 9:26).
Bible Cross References
Acts 13:21 Exodus 30:23 Deuteronomy 32:9 1 Samuel 9:16 1 Samuel 9:27 1 Samuel 12:3 1 Samuel 15:1 1 Samuel 16:1 1 Samuel 16:13 1 Samuel 26:9 2 Samuel 1:14 1 Kings 1:34 2 Kings 9:1 2 Kings 9:3 2 Kings 9:6 2 Kings 20:5 Psalm 2:12 Psalm 78:71 Ezekiel 16:13

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Samuel anoints Saul.
The sacred anointing, then used, pointed at the great Messiah, or Anointed One, the King of the church, and High Priest of our profession, who was anointed with the oil of the Spirit, not by measure, but without measure, and above all the priests and princes of the Jewish church. For Saul's further satisfaction, Samuel gives him some signs which should come to pass the same day. The first place he directs him to, was the sepulchre of one of his ancestors; there he must be reminded of his own mortality, and now that he had a crown before him, must think of his grave, in which all his honour would be laid in the dust. From the time of Samuel there appears to have been schools, or places where pious young men were brought up in the knowledge of Divine things. Saul should find himself strongly moved to join with them, and should be turned into another man from what he had been. The Spirit of God changes men, wonderfully transforms them. Saul, by praising God in the communion of saints, became another man, but it may be questioned if he became a new man.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Rachel's sepulchre - In the way to Bethlehem, which city was in Judah; her sepulchre might be either in Judah, or in Benjamin; for the possessions of those two tribes were bordering one upon another. The first place he directs him to was a sepulchre, the sepulchre of one of his ancestors. There he must read a lecture of his own mortality, and now he had a crown in his eye, must think of his grave, in which all his honour would be laid in the dust.
McArther Bible Commentary
Zelzah. Only mentioned here, Zelzah was probably near Ramah, located between Bethel and Bethlehem, where Rachel died (Gen 35:19; Gen 48:7).
Bible Cross References
Genesis 35:16 Genesis 35:20 Genesis 48:7 1 Samuel 9:3 1 Samuel 9:5

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Samuel anoints Saul.
The sacred anointing, then used, pointed at the great Messiah, or Anointed One, the King of the church, and High Priest of our profession, who was anointed with the oil of the Spirit, not by measure, but without measure, and above all the priests and princes of the Jewish church. For Saul's further satisfaction, Samuel gives him some signs which should come to pass the same day. The first place he directs him to, was the sepulchre of one of his ancestors; there he must be reminded of his own mortality, and now that he had a crown before him, must think of his grave, in which all his honour would be laid in the dust. From the time of Samuel there appears to have been schools, or places where pious young men were brought up in the knowledge of Divine things. Saul should find himself strongly moved to join with them, and should be turned into another man from what he had been. The Spirit of God changes men, wonderfully transforms them. Saul, by praising God in the communion of saints, became another man, but it may be questioned if he became a new man.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Plain - Not that at the foot of mount Tabor, which was far from these parts; but another belonging to some other place. Bethel - Properly so called, which was in Ephraim, where there was a noted high - place, famous for Jacob's vision there, (Genesis 28:19) , where it is probable they offered sacrifices, in this confused state of things, when the ark was in one place, and the tabernacle in another.
McArther Bible Commentary
Tabor. This is not the far-distant Mt. Tabor, but a location unknown, probably near Bethel.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 28:19 Genesis 35:1 Genesis 35:3 Genesis 35:8 1 Samuel 10:4 Jeremiah 32:8

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Samuel anoints Saul.
The sacred anointing, then used, pointed at the great Messiah, or Anointed One, the King of the church, and High Priest of our profession, who was anointed with the oil of the Spirit, not by measure, but without measure, and above all the priests and princes of the Jewish church. For Saul's further satisfaction, Samuel gives him some signs which should come to pass the same day. The first place he directs him to, was the sepulchre of one of his ancestors; there he must be reminded of his own mortality, and now that he had a crown before him, must think of his grave, in which all his honour would be laid in the dust. From the time of Samuel there appears to have been schools, or places where pious young men were brought up in the knowledge of Divine things. Saul should find himself strongly moved to join with them, and should be turned into another man from what he had been. The Spirit of God changes men, wonderfully transforms them. Saul, by praising God in the communion of saints, became another man, but it may be questioned if he became a new man.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 10:3 1 Samuel 10:5 1 Samuel 16:20

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Samuel anoints Saul.
The sacred anointing, then used, pointed at the great Messiah, or Anointed One, the King of the church, and High Priest of our profession, who was anointed with the oil of the Spirit, not by measure, but without measure, and above all the priests and princes of the Jewish church. For Saul's further satisfaction, Samuel gives him some signs which should come to pass the same day. The first place he directs him to, was the sepulchre of one of his ancestors; there he must be reminded of his own mortality, and now that he had a crown before him, must think of his grave, in which all his honour would be laid in the dust. From the time of Samuel there appears to have been schools, or places where pious young men were brought up in the knowledge of Divine things. Saul should find himself strongly moved to join with them, and should be turned into another man from what he had been. The Spirit of God changes men, wonderfully transforms them. Saul, by praising God in the communion of saints, became another man, but it may be questioned if he became a new man.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Prophets - By prophets he understands persons that wholly devoted themselves to religious studies and exercises. For the term of prophesying is not only given to the most eminent act of it, foretelling things to come; but also to preaching, and to the making or singing of psalms, or songs of praise to God. And they that wholly attended upon these things, are called sons of the prophets, who were commonly combined into companies or colleges, that they might more conveniently assist one another in God's work. This institution God was pleased so far to honour and bless, that sometimes he communicated unto those persons the knowledge of future things. Psaltery - Such instruments of musick being then used by prophets and other persons, for the excitation of their spirits in God's service. Prophesy - Either sing God's praises, or speak of the things of God, by a peculiar impulse of his spirit.
McArther Bible Commentary
the Philistine garrison. Most likely the garrison in Geba in Benjamin, about five miles north of Jerusalem. a group of prophets. Lit. "sons of the prophets." They were young men being trained by Samuel for the prophetic ministry (see 1Sa 19:18-20). prophesying. The prophet, as God's messenger, declared the Word of the Lord (2Sa 7:5; 2Sa 12:1), sometimes accompanied by music (1Ch 25:1). Here, prophesying connotes praising God and instructing the people with musical accompaniment.
Bible Cross References
1 Corinthians 14:1 1 Samuel 9:12 1 Samuel 10:4 1 Samuel 10:10 1 Samuel 13:2 1 Samuel 13:3 1 Samuel 19:20 2 Kings 2:3 2 Kings 2:5 2 Kings 3:15 1 Chronicles 11:16 1 Chronicles 25:1 Psalm 92:3

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Samuel anoints Saul.
The sacred anointing, then used, pointed at the great Messiah, or Anointed One, the King of the church, and High Priest of our profession, who was anointed with the oil of the Spirit, not by measure, but without measure, and above all the priests and princes of the Jewish church. For Saul's further satisfaction, Samuel gives him some signs which should come to pass the same day. The first place he directs him to, was the sepulchre of one of his ancestors; there he must be reminded of his own mortality, and now that he had a crown before him, must think of his grave, in which all his honour would be laid in the dust. From the time of Samuel there appears to have been schools, or places where pious young men were brought up in the knowledge of Divine things. Saul should find himself strongly moved to join with them, and should be turned into another man from what he had been. The Spirit of God changes men, wonderfully transforms them. Saul, by praising God in the communion of saints, became another man, but it may be questioned if he became a new man.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Will come - Heb. will leap, or rush upon thee. Another man - That is, thou shalt be suddenly endowed with another spirit, filled with skill of divine things, with courage, and wisdom, and magnanimity; and other qualifications befitting thy dignity.
McArther Bible Commentary
the Spirit of the Lord will come upon you. The Holy Spirit would enable Saul to declare the Word of the Lord with the prophets. turned into another man. With this empowerment by the Holy Spirit, Saul would emerge as another man (cf. 1Sa 10:9), equipped in the manner of Gideon and Jepthah for deeds of valor (cf. 1Sa 10:9; Jdg 6:34; Jdg 11:29).
Bible Cross References
Numbers 11:17 Numbers 11:25 Numbers 11:26 Numbers 11:29 Judges 14:6 1 Samuel 10:9 1 Samuel 10:10 1 Samuel 16:13 1 Samuel 19:20 1 Samuel 19:23 1 Samuel 19:24

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Samuel anoints Saul.
The sacred anointing, then used, pointed at the great Messiah, or Anointed One, the King of the church, and High Priest of our profession, who was anointed with the oil of the Spirit, not by measure, but without measure, and above all the priests and princes of the Jewish church. For Saul's further satisfaction, Samuel gives him some signs which should come to pass the same day. The first place he directs him to, was the sepulchre of one of his ancestors; there he must be reminded of his own mortality, and now that he had a crown before him, must think of his grave, in which all his honour would be laid in the dust. From the time of Samuel there appears to have been schools, or places where pious young men were brought up in the knowledge of Divine things. Saul should find himself strongly moved to join with them, and should be turned into another man from what he had been. The Spirit of God changes men, wonderfully transforms them. Saul, by praising God in the communion of saints, became another man, but it may be questioned if he became a new man.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Thou do - Heb. do what they hand findeth to do; that is, as thou shalt have a call and opportunity. He doth not intend that he should take the kingly government upon him, before his call to it was owned by the people, but that he should dispose his mind to a readiness of undertaking any public service when he should be called to his office.
McArther Bible Commentary
signs. The three signs of verses 2-6: (1) the report of the found donkeys; (2) the encounter of the three men going to Bethel; and (3) the encounter with the prophets. do as the occasion demands. Saul was to do what his hand found to do (Ecc 9:10).
Bible Cross References
Hebrews 13:5 Joshua 1:5 Judges 6:12 Judges 9:33 1 Samuel 2:34 Ecclesiastes 9:10

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Samuel anoints Saul.
The sacred anointing, then used, pointed at the great Messiah, or Anointed One, the King of the church, and High Priest of our profession, who was anointed with the oil of the Spirit, not by measure, but without measure, and above all the priests and princes of the Jewish church. For Saul's further satisfaction, Samuel gives him some signs which should come to pass the same day. The first place he directs him to, was the sepulchre of one of his ancestors; there he must be reminded of his own mortality, and now that he had a crown before him, must think of his grave, in which all his honour would be laid in the dust. From the time of Samuel there appears to have been schools, or places where pious young men were brought up in the knowledge of Divine things. Saul should find himself strongly moved to join with them, and should be turned into another man from what he had been. The Spirit of God changes men, wonderfully transforms them. Saul, by praising God in the communion of saints, became another man, but it may be questioned if he became a new man.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Till I come - This, though now mentioned and commanded, was not immediately to be performed; as is evident, partly from the whole course of the story, (which shews, that Saul and Samuel, and the people, first met at Mizpeh, (1 Samuel 10:17) , &c. where Saul was chosen by God, and accepted by the people as king; and afterwards went to Gilgal once before the time here spoken of, (1 Samuel 11:14-15) ,) and partly, by comparing this place with (1 Samuel 13:8) , &c. where we find Saul charged with the violation of this command, two years after the giving of it. It seems this is given as a standing rule for Saul to observe while Samuel and he lived; that in case of any great future difficulties, as the invasion of enemies, Saul should resort to Gilgal, and call the people thither, and tarry there seven days, which was but a necessary time for gathering the people, and for the coming of Samuel thither. And Gilgal was chosen for this purpose, because that place was famous for the solemn renewing of the covenant between God and Israel, (Joshua 4:19-24) , and for other eminent instances of God's favour to them, the remembrance whereof was a confirmation of their faith; and because it was a very convenient place for he tribes within and without Jordan to assemble, and consult, and unite their forces together upon such occasions.
McArther Bible Commentary
Gilgal. The town where Saul eventually would (1) be declared king by Samuel (1Sa 11:14-15), and (2) offer sacrifice before the Lord without the prophet Samuel (1Sa 13:12), also where Samuel killed King Agag (1Sa 15:33). Gilgal was east of Jericho, but west of the Jordan River. burnt offerings and … peace offerings. See notes on Lev 1:3-17; 1Sa 3:1-17. Seven days. The appointed time Saul was to wait for Samuel to come and tell him what to do (see 1Sa 13:8).
Bible Cross References
Leviticus 3:9 1 Samuel 11:14 1 Samuel 11:15 1 Samuel 13:8

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul prophesies.
The signs Samuel had given Saul, came to pass punctually; he found that God had given him another heart, another disposition of mind. Yet let not an outward show of devotion, and a sudden change for the present, be too much relied on; Saul among the prophets was Saul still. His being anointed was kept private. He leaves it to God to carry on his own work by Samuel, and sits still, to see how the matter will fall.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
Saul Became a New Man
—The Lord would not leave Saul to be placed in a position of trust without divine enlightenment. He was to have a new calling, and the Spirit of the Lord came upon him. The effect was that he was changed into a new man. The Lord gave Saul a new spirit, other thoughts, other aims and desires than he had previously had. This enlightenment, with the spiritual knowledge of God, placing him on vantage ground, was to bind his will to the will of Jehovah (Letter 12a, 1888).
McArther Bible Commentary
God gave him another heart. Lit. "God changed him for another heart," i.e., God prepared Saul for the kingship by having the Holy Spirit come upon him (cf. 1Sa 10:6).
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 2:35 1 Samuel 10:6 1 Samuel 16:13

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul prophesies.
The signs Samuel had given Saul, came to pass punctually; he found that God had given him another heart, another disposition of mind. Yet let not an outward show of devotion, and a sudden change for the present, be too much relied on; Saul among the prophets was Saul still. His being anointed was kept private. He leaves it to God to carry on his own work by Samuel, and sits still, to see how the matter will fall.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Prophesied - The accomplishment of the two former signs is supposed, and this only is expressed, because this was more eminent than the former; the other were only transient acts, which passed in private between two or three persons meeting together; but this was a more permanent and notorious sign, done in a more solemn manner, and before many witnesses.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 2:35 1 Samuel 10:5 1 Samuel 10:6 1 Samuel 11:6 1 Samuel 19:20 1 Samuel 19:23 1 Samuel 19:24

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul prophesies.
The signs Samuel had given Saul, came to pass punctually; he found that God had given him another heart, another disposition of mind. Yet let not an outward show of devotion, and a sudden change for the present, be too much relied on; Saul among the prophets was Saul still. His being anointed was kept private. He leaves it to God to carry on his own work by Samuel, and sits still, to see how the matter will fall.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Is Saul - A man never instructed, nor exercised in, nor inclined to these matters.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 13:54 John 7:15 1 Samuel 19:24 Amos 7:14 Amos 7:15

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul prophesies.
The signs Samuel had given Saul, came to pass punctually; he found that God had given him another heart, another disposition of mind. Yet let not an outward show of devotion, and a sudden change for the present, be too much relied on; Saul among the prophets was Saul still. His being anointed was kept private. He leaves it to God to carry on his own work by Samuel, and sits still, to see how the matter will fall.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Who is, &c. - Who is the father of all these prophets, among whom Saul now is one? Who is it that instructs and inspires them but God? They have it not from their parents, nor from their education, but by inspiration from God, who, when he pleaseth, can inspire Saul, or any other man with the same skill. And therefore wonder not at this matter, but give God the glory of it. A proverb - Used when any strange, or unexpected thing happened.
McArther Bible Commentary
who is their father? A question asked to find out the identity of the leader of the prophetic band that now included Saul. a proverb. A saying of common occurrence.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 10:13 1 Samuel 19:23 1 Samuel 19:24

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul prophesies.
The signs Samuel had given Saul, came to pass punctually; he found that God had given him another heart, another disposition of mind. Yet let not an outward show of devotion, and a sudden change for the present, be too much relied on; Saul among the prophets was Saul still. His being anointed was kept private. He leaves it to God to carry on his own work by Samuel, and sits still, to see how the matter will fall.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
High place - Returning thither with the prophets, to praise God for these wonderful favours, and to beg counsel and help from God in this high business.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 10:12 1 Samuel 10:14

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul prophesies.
The signs Samuel had given Saul, came to pass punctually; he found that God had given him another heart, another disposition of mind. Yet let not an outward show of devotion, and a sudden change for the present, be too much relied on; Saul among the prophets was Saul still. His being anointed was kept private. He leaves it to God to carry on his own work by Samuel, and sits still, to see how the matter will fall.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 9:3 1 Samuel 10:13 1 Samuel 10:15 1 Samuel 14:50

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul prophesies.
The signs Samuel had given Saul, came to pass punctually; he found that God had given him another heart, another disposition of mind. Yet let not an outward show of devotion, and a sudden change for the present, be too much relied on; Saul among the prophets was Saul still. His being anointed was kept private. He leaves it to God to carry on his own work by Samuel, and sits still, to see how the matter will fall.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 10:14 1 Samuel 10:16

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul prophesies.
The signs Samuel had given Saul, came to pass punctually; he found that God had given him another heart, another disposition of mind. Yet let not an outward show of devotion, and a sudden change for the present, be too much relied on; Saul among the prophets was Saul still. His being anointed was kept private. He leaves it to God to carry on his own work by Samuel, and sits still, to see how the matter will fall.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Told not - In obedience to Samuel, who obliged him to secrecy: and from an humble modesty.
McArther Bible Commentary
the matter of the kingdom. He did not tell his uncle the information Samuel gave Saul about becoming king. This might reflect Saul's humility (cf. 1Sa 10:22).
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 9:20 1 Samuel 10:15

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul chosen king.
Samuel tells the people, Ye have this day rejected your God. So little fond was Saul now of that power, which soon after, when he possessed it, he could not think of parting with, that he hid himself. It is good to be conscious of our unworthiness and insufficiency for the services to which we are called; but men should not go into the contrary extreme, by refusing the employments to which the Lord and the church call them. The greater part of the people treated the matter with indifference. Saul modestly went home to his own house, but was attended by a band of men whose hearts God disposed to support his authority. If the heart bend at any time the right way, it is because He has touched it. One touch is enough when it is Divine. Others despised him. Thus differently are men affected to our exalted Redeemer. There is a remnant who submit to him, and follow him wherever he goes; they are those whose hearts God has touched, whom he has made willing. But there are others who despise him, who ask, How shall this man save us? They are offended in him, and they will be punished.
McArther Bible Commentary
Samuel called the people. The Lord's choice of Saul was made public at Mizpah, the place of the spiritual revival before Israel's victory over the Philistines (1Sa 7:5-8).
Bible Cross References
Judges 11:11 Judges 20:1 1 Samuel 7:5 1 Samuel 11:15 Hosea 13:11

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul chosen king.
Samuel tells the people, Ye have this day rejected your God. So little fond was Saul now of that power, which soon after, when he possessed it, he could not think of parting with, that he hid himself. It is good to be conscious of our unworthiness and insufficiency for the services to which we are called; but men should not go into the contrary extreme, by refusing the employments to which the Lord and the church call them. The greater part of the people treated the matter with indifference. Saul modestly went home to his own house, but was attended by a band of men whose hearts God disposed to support his authority. If the heart bend at any time the right way, it is because He has touched it. One touch is enough when it is Divine. Others despised him. Thus differently are men affected to our exalted Redeemer. There is a remnant who submit to him, and follow him wherever he goes; they are those whose hearts God has touched, whom he has made willing. But there are others who despise him, who ask, How shall this man save us? They are offended in him, and they will be punished.
McArther Bible Commentary
the Lord God of Israel … delivered you. Despite the past faithfulness of God to His people, they still desired a human king to deliver them from the hands of their enemies.
Bible Cross References
Numbers 10:9 Judges 6:8 Judges 6:9 1 Samuel 12:8

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul chosen king.
Samuel tells the people, Ye have this day rejected your God. So little fond was Saul now of that power, which soon after, when he possessed it, he could not think of parting with, that he hid himself. It is good to be conscious of our unworthiness and insufficiency for the services to which we are called; but men should not go into the contrary extreme, by refusing the employments to which the Lord and the church call them. The greater part of the people treated the matter with indifference. Saul modestly went home to his own house, but was attended by a band of men whose hearts God disposed to support his authority. If the heart bend at any time the right way, it is because He has touched it. One touch is enough when it is Divine. Others despised him. Thus differently are men affected to our exalted Redeemer. There is a remnant who submit to him, and follow him wherever he goes; they are those whose hearts God has touched, whom he has made willing. But there are others who despise him, who ask, How shall this man save us? They are offended in him, and they will be punished.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Now therefore, &c. - He puts them upon chusing their king by lot, that all might know God had chosen Saul (for the disposal of the lot is of the Lord) and to prevent all dispute and exception.
Bible Cross References
Numbers 11:20 Deuteronomy 17:14 Joshua 7:14 Joshua 24:1 Judges 8:23 1 Samuel 8:6 1 Samuel 8:7 1 Samuel 10:20 1 Samuel 12:12 1 Samuel 14:23 1 Samuel 14:38 Proverbs 16:33

Verse 20

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul chosen king.
Samuel tells the people, Ye have this day rejected your God. So little fond was Saul now of that power, which soon after, when he possessed it, he could not think of parting with, that he hid himself. It is good to be conscious of our unworthiness and insufficiency for the services to which we are called; but men should not go into the contrary extreme, by refusing the employments to which the Lord and the church call them. The greater part of the people treated the matter with indifference. Saul modestly went home to his own house, but was attended by a band of men whose hearts God disposed to support his authority. If the heart bend at any time the right way, it is because He has touched it. One touch is enough when it is Divine. Others despised him. Thus differently are men affected to our exalted Redeemer. There is a remnant who submit to him, and follow him wherever he goes; they are those whose hearts God has touched, whom he has made willing. But there are others who despise him, who ask, How shall this man save us? They are offended in him, and they will be punished.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Benjamin - Which tribe was now preferred before Judah, because the kingdom was freely promised by God to Judah, and was to be given to him in love; but now the kingdom was in a manner forced from God, and given them in anger and therefore conferred upon an obscure tribe.
McArther Bible Commentary
chosen. Probably Saul was selected by the casting of lots (cf. Lev 16:8-10; Jos 7:15-18). See note on Pro 16:33.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 10:19 1 Samuel 10:21 1 Samuel 14:38 2 Samuel 3:19 Jonah 1:7

Verse 21

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul chosen king.
Samuel tells the people, Ye have this day rejected your God. So little fond was Saul now of that power, which soon after, when he possessed it, he could not think of parting with, that he hid himself. It is good to be conscious of our unworthiness and insufficiency for the services to which we are called; but men should not go into the contrary extreme, by refusing the employments to which the Lord and the church call them. The greater part of the people treated the matter with indifference. Saul modestly went home to his own house, but was attended by a band of men whose hearts God disposed to support his authority. If the heart bend at any time the right way, it is because He has touched it. One touch is enough when it is Divine. Others despised him. Thus differently are men affected to our exalted Redeemer. There is a remnant who submit to him, and follow him wherever he goes; they are those whose hearts God has touched, whom he has made willing. But there are others who despise him, who ask, How shall this man save us? They are offended in him, and they will be punished.
Bible Cross References
Acts 13:21 1 Samuel 10:20 1 Samuel 10:22 2 Samuel 3:19 Jonah 1:7

Verse 22

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul chosen king.
Samuel tells the people, Ye have this day rejected your God. So little fond was Saul now of that power, which soon after, when he possessed it, he could not think of parting with, that he hid himself. It is good to be conscious of our unworthiness and insufficiency for the services to which we are called; but men should not go into the contrary extreme, by refusing the employments to which the Lord and the church call them. The greater part of the people treated the matter with indifference. Saul modestly went home to his own house, but was attended by a band of men whose hearts God disposed to support his authority. If the heart bend at any time the right way, it is because He has touched it. One touch is enough when it is Divine. Others despised him. Thus differently are men affected to our exalted Redeemer. There is a remnant who submit to him, and follow him wherever he goes; they are those whose hearts God has touched, whom he has made willing. But there are others who despise him, who ask, How shall this man save us? They are offended in him, and they will be punished.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Enquired - Either by Urim or Thummim, which was the usual way of enquiry. Or, by Samuel, who by his prayer procured an answer. Stuff - Among the carriages or baggage of the people there assembled. This he probably did, from a sense of his own unworthiness.
McArther Bible Commentary
hidden among the equipment. Overwhelmed, Saul had hidden himself in the military supplies.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 25:22 1 Samuel 10:21 1 Samuel 14:37 1 Samuel 15:17 1 Samuel 22:10 1 Samuel 23:2 1 Samuel 23:4

Verse 23

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul chosen king.
Samuel tells the people, Ye have this day rejected your God. So little fond was Saul now of that power, which soon after, when he possessed it, he could not think of parting with, that he hid himself. It is good to be conscious of our unworthiness and insufficiency for the services to which we are called; but men should not go into the contrary extreme, by refusing the employments to which the Lord and the church call them. The greater part of the people treated the matter with indifference. Saul modestly went home to his own house, but was attended by a band of men whose hearts God disposed to support his authority. If the heart bend at any time the right way, it is because He has touched it. One touch is enough when it is Divine. Others despised him. Thus differently are men affected to our exalted Redeemer. There is a remnant who submit to him, and follow him wherever he goes; they are those whose hearts God has touched, whom he has made willing. But there are others who despise him, who ask, How shall this man save us? They are offended in him, and they will be punished.
McArther Bible Commentary
taller … from his shoulders upward. Saul's physical stature was impressive; being head and shoulders above the othe people gave Saul a kingly presence.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 3:24 1 Samuel 9:2

Verse 24

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul chosen king.
Samuel tells the people, Ye have this day rejected your God. So little fond was Saul now of that power, which soon after, when he possessed it, he could not think of parting with, that he hid himself. It is good to be conscious of our unworthiness and insufficiency for the services to which we are called; but men should not go into the contrary extreme, by refusing the employments to which the Lord and the church call them. The greater part of the people treated the matter with indifference. Saul modestly went home to his own house, but was attended by a band of men whose hearts God disposed to support his authority. If the heart bend at any time the right way, it is because He has touched it. One touch is enough when it is Divine. Others despised him. Thus differently are men affected to our exalted Redeemer. There is a remnant who submit to him, and follow him wherever he goes; they are those whose hearts God has touched, whom he has made willing. But there are others who despise him, who ask, How shall this man save us? They are offended in him, and they will be punished.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
Saul's Capabilities Perverted
—Saul had a mind and influence capable of governing a kingdom, if his powers had been submitted to the control of God, but the very endowments that qualified him for doing good could be used by Satan, when surrendered to his power, and would enable him to exert widespread influence for evil. He could be more sternly vindictive, more injurious and determined in prosecuting his unholy designs, than could others, because of the superior powers of mind and heart that had been given him of God (The Signs of the Times, October 19, 1888).
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
Mutual Love of Saul and Samuel
—The relation between Samuel and Saul was one of peculiar tenderness. Samuel loved Saul as his own son, while Saul, bold and ardent of temper, held the prophet in great reverence, and bestowed upon him the warmth of his affection and regard. Thus the prophet of the living God, an old man whose mission was nearly finished, and the youthful king, whose work was before him, were bound together by the ties of friendship and respect. All through his perverse course, the king clung to the prophet as if he alone could save him from himself (The Signs of the Times, June 1, 1888).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
None like him - As to the height of his bodily stature, which was in itself, commendable in a king, and some kind of indication of great endowments of mind. God save the king - Heb. let the king live; that is, long and prosperously. Hereby they accept him for their king, and promise subjection to him. None will be losers in the end by their humility and modesty. Honour, like the shadows, follows them that flee from it, but flees from them that pursue it.
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 17:15 1 Samuel 9:2 1 Samuel 12:1 1 Samuel 12:13 2 Samuel 16:16 2 Samuel 21:6 1 Kings 1:25 1 Kings 1:34 1 Kings 1:39 2 Kings 11:12 2 Chronicles 23:11

Verse 25

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul chosen king.
Samuel tells the people, Ye have this day rejected your God. So little fond was Saul now of that power, which soon after, when he possessed it, he could not think of parting with, that he hid himself. It is good to be conscious of our unworthiness and insufficiency for the services to which we are called; but men should not go into the contrary extreme, by refusing the employments to which the Lord and the church call them. The greater part of the people treated the matter with indifference. Saul modestly went home to his own house, but was attended by a band of men whose hearts God disposed to support his authority. If the heart bend at any time the right way, it is because He has touched it. One touch is enough when it is Divine. Others despised him. Thus differently are men affected to our exalted Redeemer. There is a remnant who submit to him, and follow him wherever he goes; they are those whose hearts God has touched, whom he has made willing. But there are others who despise him, who ask, How shall this man save us? They are offended in him, and they will be punished.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
Mutual Love of Saul and Samuel
—The relation between Samuel and Saul was one of peculiar tenderness. Samuel loved Saul as his own son, while Saul, bold and ardent of temper, held the prophet in great reverence, and bestowed upon him the warmth of his affection and regard. Thus the prophet of the living God, an old man whose mission was nearly finished, and the youthful king, whose work was before him, were bound together by the ties of friendship and respect. All through his perverse course, the king clung to the prophet as if he alone could save him from himself (The Signs of the Times, June 1, 1888).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Manner of the kingdom - The laws and rules by which the kingly government was to be managed; agreeable to those mentioned (Deuteronomy 17:16) , &c. Before the Lord - Before the ark, where it was kept safe from depravation.
McArther Bible Commentary
the behavior of royalty. Samuel reminded the people of the regulations governing the conduct of kings according to Deu 17:14-20.
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 17:14 Deuteronomy 31:26 1 Samuel 8:9 1 Samuel 8:11 1 Samuel 11:14 2 Kings 11:17

Verse 26

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul chosen king.
Samuel tells the people, Ye have this day rejected your God. So little fond was Saul now of that power, which soon after, when he possessed it, he could not think of parting with, that he hid himself. It is good to be conscious of our unworthiness and insufficiency for the services to which we are called; but men should not go into the contrary extreme, by refusing the employments to which the Lord and the church call them. The greater part of the people treated the matter with indifference. Saul modestly went home to his own house, but was attended by a band of men whose hearts God disposed to support his authority. If the heart bend at any time the right way, it is because He has touched it. One touch is enough when it is Divine. Others despised him. Thus differently are men affected to our exalted Redeemer. There is a remnant who submit to him, and follow him wherever he goes; they are those whose hearts God has touched, whom he has made willing. But there are others who despise him, who ask, How shall this man save us? They are offended in him, and they will be punished.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Went home - Not being actually inaugurated into his kingdom, he thought fit to retire to his former habitation, and to live privately 'till he had an occasion to shew himself in a more illustrious manner. Then went - To give him safe and honourable conduct to his house, though not to abide with him there, which did not suit his present circumstance.
McArther Bible Commentary
whose hearts God had touched. Valiant men who were eager to affirm God's choice of Saul and, in response to a divine impulse, joined him.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 11:4 1 Samuel 13:2 1 Samuel 15:34 Isaiah 10:29

Verse 27

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul chosen king.
Samuel tells the people, Ye have this day rejected your God. So little fond was Saul now of that power, which soon after, when he possessed it, he could not think of parting with, that he hid himself. It is good to be conscious of our unworthiness and insufficiency for the services to which we are called; but men should not go into the contrary extreme, by refusing the employments to which the Lord and the church call them. The greater part of the people treated the matter with indifference. Saul modestly went home to his own house, but was attended by a band of men whose hearts God disposed to support his authority. If the heart bend at any time the right way, it is because He has touched it. One touch is enough when it is Divine. Others despised him. Thus differently are men affected to our exalted Redeemer. There is a remnant who submit to him, and follow him wherever he goes; they are those whose hearts God has touched, whom he has made willing. But there are others who despise him, who ask, How shall this man save us? They are offended in him, and they will be punished.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
No presents - As subjects in those times used to do to their kings. This was an evidence both of his humility, and the mercifulness of his disposition. So Christ held his peace, in the day of his patience. But there is a day of recompense coming.
McArther Bible Commentary
rebels. Lit. "sons of Belial" (see note on 1Sa 2:12). Those who did not recognize Saul with the respect befitting a king.
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 13:13 1 Samuel 11:12 1 Samuel 11:13 1 Samuel 16:20 1 Samuel 25:17 1 Kings 10:25 2 Chronicles 17:5